Construction work has started on a new boutique hotel and destination spa which will open on the beautiful, unspoilt east coast of Barbados at the end of next year. Santosha Retreat and Spa will be the first new hotel development to take place on the Atlantic coast of the island for many years.

The new property will be an intimate escape retreat with only 18 stylish rooms, offering dramatic views over the island`s most spectacular, wild and unspoilt beach as well as the hills of Barbados` protected National Park. Work is now well underway on the main accommodation, Club House and restaurant structures while preparatory work has also started on the gym and tea room.

Santosha will be a hideaway of tranquillity and understated style and yet the property will be only 20 minutes from the buzzing and vibrant west coast and 35 minutes from the international airport and the island`s capital, Bridgetown. It will be open to non member residential guests as well as people choosing to dine in the gourmet restaurant and use the spa facilities.

The property will combine incomparable views with distinctive architecture which will draw on traditions and crafts rooted in Caribbean culture and will integrate well with the stunning landscape. The stylish decor, superb cuisine and exceptional spa services will make it the ideal hideaway for rest and relaxation. The retreat`s rooms, all furnished to the highest standards, include some with private courtyards and some with plunge pools while there will also be ocean view cottages with private gardens.

The Spa will have eight air conditioned treatment rooms while other facilities will include a yoga and meditation studio and a state of the art fitness centre complete with Jacuzzi and herbal steam room.

The Club House will offer indoor and outdoor dining areas and an open concept kitchen where guests will be able to watch the master chef and his team preparing their cuisine. There will also be an infinity-edge, fresh-water pool, bar and barbeque area. The retreat will be surrounded by acres of landscaped gardens complete with water features and hillside gazebos.

The property is being developed by Jim McGowan, Managing Director of design and build company, Visionscape Inc. of Barbados, who has been in luxury real estate development and commercial construction for 25 years. Overseas property investors looking to combine a relaxed Caribbean lifestyle with added investment appeal are being offered the opportunity to become equity members in the new hotel.

Early investment is being encouraged by the fact that memberships currently cost $121,000(